Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, Harlow

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 8 March 2023

Pupils feel welcome at Holy Cross. A typical pupil's view is that 'this is a loving and caring community.' They are welcomed at the gates each morning by staff that know each of them by name. This makes pupils feel valued. All pupils understand the importance of following the schools 'golden thread' of values. They show this by being caring, polite and respecting one another. Pupils behave well. They are clear on the high behaviour expectations leaders have set and expect each other to follow them. Pupils are attentive and focused in lessons. Lessons are not interrupted by poor behaviour. Pupils have positive attitudes to learning. Older pupils are kind and nurturing to younger pupils. Some have responsibilities as buddies or mediators to ensure pupils feel included in school life. Bullying is rare. If it does happen, pupils are confident that trusted adults will deal with it promptly. Pupils speak enthusiastically about clubs and additional activities including international week, choir, and gardening. Pupils know that staff listen to their opinions and ideas through the school council. For example, the pupils were able to create a gardening area through the school's eco-council. Pupils aspire to win awards at the weekly rewards events which parents attend.

What the school should improve

• In some subjects, staff are not fully confident in their subject knowledge to enable them to teach the planned curriculum well. As a result, pupils do not routinely know and remember more in these subjects. Leaders should ensure staff receive the training they need for them to deliver the intended curriculum confidently and consistently in all areas of the curriculum well.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)